Western Electric WE300B glow and noise


Hello all,
I really hope you guys can help me out. Just bought a new pair of the Western Electric 300B new production from an authorized dealer in Southern California (I actually had to go through 3 pairs to pick out the best pair..the first pair got really loose pins, the 2nd pair had a crack on one of the tube's base).

Here's the problem: I had this pair for about 2 weeks now, about 110-130hrs on them. At first, the tubes displayed a blue glow in the dome of the envelops, which, according to WE's website FAQ, is normal. Now, the blue glow extends down to the base of the tubes and it moves in a sweeping motion like a light show. When the light moves, i can hear a soft hissing sound and also a soft pop/click as well (when the glow starts moving and stops moving)

Has anyone had this experience with WE300B tubes before? Will this phenomenon go away after the tubes burn in more or this is a sign of defects? Is this SAFE to use or should i unplug them???

Any suggestion/advice will be greatly appreciated.
thanx
jaytea

Showing 2 responses by johnjbarlow

I am curious about the KR Audio 300B. I am using Shuguang 300BS tubes. I think they are pretty special.I did have one or two noisy ones which were promptly replaced free of charge by Parts Connexion. Has anyone tried both the KR brand and Shuguang? What was the difference? I might like to try them.
Hi, it is completely normal for 300B tubes to display a blue or violet hue. I would be concerned about any extraneous hissing sound or pop. Did you ask the dealer for a replacement pair? I would.